Wielkopolska Region focuses on clean energy

During the UN COP28 climate summit in Dubai, new members and partners, including the Wielkopolska Region, joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA). It is a coalition of national and local governments, businesses and organizations working to accelerate the transition from coal-fired energy to clean energy. – Our joint activities are important not only for ourselves today, but above all for future generations, so that they can live in a world that allows for life – emphasizes Marek Woźniak, Marshal of the Wielkopolska Region.

The UN COP28 climate summit began on November 30 in the largest city of the United Arab Emirates – Dubai. During the summit, diplomats and politicians talk about limiting temperature increases caused by greenhouse gas emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. On December 2, Greater Poland joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), which works to accelerate the transition from coal energy production to clean energy. On that day, the accession of the United States, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, the Dominican Republic, Iceland, Kosovo, Norway and the city of Taoyuan (Taiwan) was also announced.

– It was with great satisfaction that I received the information about the possibility of Wielkopolska joining the Powering Past Coal Alliance coalition. Being among regions with extensive experience in the field of energy transformation is an honor and a great commitment to intensive work. The announcement of our participation at such a significant event to combat climate change as COP28 highlights its importance. The transition from coal energy production to clean energy is the goal of the Wielkopolska Voivodeship Government – says Marek Woźniak, Marshal of the Wielkopolska Voivodeship.

The Marshal adds that these activities are carried out, among others, through the Just Transition Fund for Eastern Greater Poland, for which funds in the amount of over EUR 400 million are allocated in the new financial perspective of the European Union. It also involves the implementation of a number of projects such as, among others: LIFE After Coal Pl, or numerous activities related to the development of the hydrogen economy. Greater Poland has also joined Hydrogen Europe – the most representative hydrogen and fuel cell network in Europe.

– We are the first region from Poland in this important European body. We have also reported access to the Climate Group. We believe that these types of partnerships increase the opportunities for regions to achieve climate neutrality together. Joining the Powering Past Coal Alliance is a continuation of the path we have chosen. We must unite our forces in this challenging undertaking of the energy transformation and show the path to those who are undecided, so as to support the planet in a difficult period, while remembering the challenges this path poses to people. The transformation must be just. Our joint actions are important not only for ourselves today, but above all for future generations, so that they can live in a world that allows for life – emphasizes Marek Woźniak.